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Bockrath R, Osman C, Trainor J, Wang HC, Phatak UP, Richards DG, Keeley M, Chung EK. Education Scholarship Assessment Reconsidered: Expansion of Glassick's Criteria to Incorporate Health Equity. ACADEMIC MEDICINE : JOURNAL OF THE ASSOCIATION OF AMERICAN MEDICAL COLLEGES 2024; 99:487-492. [PMID: 38306582 DOI: 10.1097/acm.0000000000005654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Recent events have ignited widespread attention to structural racism and implicit bias throughout the U.S. health care system and medical institutions, resulting in a call for antiracism approaches to advance health equity. Medical education leaders are well positioned to advance health equity, not only through their training of fellows, residents, and medical students, but also in their approach to scholarship. Education scholarship drives innovation and critical evaluation of current practices; it impacts and intersects with multiple factors that have the potential to reduce health inequities. Thus, it is critical to prioritize the assessment of education scholarship through a health equity lens. Medical education scholarly dissemination has markedly expanded over the past 2 to 3 decades, yet medical educators have continued to embrace Boyer's and Glassick and colleagues' definitions of scholarship. The authors propose an approach to medical education scholarship assessment that expands each of Glassick's 6 existing criteria to address health inequities and adds health equity as a seventh criterion. With this, medical educators, researchers, reviewers, and others can consider how education scholarship affects diverse populations and settings, direct educational products and scholarship to address health inequities, and raise the importance of advancing health equity in medical education scholarship. By expanding and standardizing the assessment of scholarship to incorporate health equity, the medical education community can foster a cultural shift that brings health equity to the forefront of education scholarship.
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Chang PW, Goyal NK, Chung EK. Marijuana Use and Breastfeeding: A Survey of Newborn Nurseries. Pediatrics 2024; 153:e2023063682. [PMID: 38247374 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2023-063682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Marijuana use has increased nationally and is the most common federally illicit substance used during pregnancy. This study aimed to describe hospital practices and nursery director knowledge and attitudes regarding marijuana use and breastfeeding and assess the association between breastfeeding restrictions and provider knowledge, geographic region, and state marijuana legalization status. We hypothesized that there would be associations between geography and/or state legalization and hospital practices regarding breastfeeding with perinatal marijuana use. METHODS A cross-sectional, 31-question survey was sent electronically to the 110 US hospital members of the Academic Pediatric Association's Better Outcomes through Research for Newborns (BORN) network. Survey responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics to report frequencies. For comparisons, χ2 and Fisher exact tests were used to determine statistical significance. RESULTS Sixty-nine (63%) BORN nursery directors across 38 states completed the survey. For mothers with a positive cannabinoid screen at delivery, 16% of hospitals universally or selectively restrict breastfeeding. Most (96%) nursery directors reported that marijuana use while breastfeeding is "somewhat" (70%) or "very harmful" (26%). The majority was aware of the potential negative impact of prenatal marijuana use on learning and behavior. There were no consistent statistical associations between breastfeeding restrictions and provider marijuana knowledge, geographic region, or state marijuana legalization status. CONCLUSIONS BORN newborn clinicians report highly variable and unpredictable breastfeeding support practices for mothers with perinatal marijuana use. Further studies are needed to establish evidence-based practices and to promote consistent, equitable care of newborns with perinatal marijuana exposure.
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Joshi NS, Flaherman VJ, Halpern-Felsher B, Chung EK, Congdon JL, Lee HC. Admission and Care Practices in United States Well Newborn Nurseries. Hosp Pediatr 2023; 13:208-216. [PMID: 36843483 PMCID: PMC9986853 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2022-006882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Late preterm and term infants comprise 97.3% of annual births in the United States. Admission criteria and the availability of medical interventions in well newborn nurseries are key determinants of these infants remaining within a mother-infant dyad or requiring a NICU admission and resultant separation of the dyad. The objective of this study was to identify national patterns for well newborn nursery care practices. METHODS We surveyed a physician representative from each nursery in the Better Outcomes through Research for Newborns Network. We described the admission criteria and clinical management of common newborn morbidities and analyzed associations with nursery demographics. RESULTS Of 96 eligible nursery representatives, 69 (72%) completed surveys. Among respondents, 59 (86%) used a minimal birth weight criterion for admission to their well newborn nursery. The most commonly used criteria were 2000 g (n = 29, 49%) and 1800 g (n = 19, 32%), with a range between 1750 and 2500 g. All nurseries used a minimal gestational age criterion for admission; the most commonly used criterion was 35 weeks (n = 55, 80%). Eleven percent of sites required transfer to the NICU for phototherapy. Common interventions in the mother's room included dextrose gel (n = 56, 81%), intravenous antibiotics (n = 35, 51%), opiates for neonatal abstinence syndrome (n = 15, 22%), and an incubator for thermoregulation (n = 14, 20%). CONCLUSIONS Wide variation in admission criteria and medical interventions exists in well newborn nurseries. Further studies may help identify evidence-based optimal admission criteria to maximize care within the mother-infant dyad.
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Fusfeld ZH, Goyal NK, Goldstein ND, Chung EK. Assessing and Validating a Model of Study Completion for a Prospective Cohort of Healthy Newborns. Hosp Pediatr 2022; 13:e2022006626. [PMID: 36475380 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2022-006626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To identify potentially modifiable or actionable factors related to study completion among healthy mother-infant dyads participating in prospective research. PATIENTS/METHODS We conducted a secondary analysis of completion data from a prospective study on newborn jaundice in the first week of life at a tertiary-care hospital in Philadelphia, PA, from 2015 to 2019. Participation in the original study involved enrollment before newborn discharge and subsequent follow-up for a jaundice assessment between 2 and 6 days of life. For this study, our primary outcome was completion of all study procedures. Associations between predictor variables and the outcome were assessed using bivariate and multivariable analyses. We fit a predictive model of study completion using logistic regression and validated the model using 5-fold cross-validation. RESULTS Of 501 mother-infant dyads enrolled in the original study, 304 completed the study. Median maternal age was 28 years and 81.8% of mothers delivered via vaginal birth. Study completion was associated with colocation of the study visit with the initial well-child visit (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 2.99, 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.01-4.46) and provision of an alternate phone number by the participant (aOR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.34-2.96). The cross-validated model performed similarly to our final predictive model and had an average area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.67 (range, 0.59-0.72), with a sensitivity of 68% and specificity of 60%. CONCLUSIONS Findings demonstrate the importance of communication and patient-centric approaches for recruitment and retention in newborn research. Future work should incorporate these approaches while continuing to evaluate study retention strategies.
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Chung EK, Painter I, Sitcov K, Souter VD. Exclusive Breastfeeding in the Northwest: Disparities Related to Race/Ethnicity and Substance Use. Acad Pediatr 2022; 22:918-926. [PMID: 34600112 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2021.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Mothers who are Black, Indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) are disproportionately impacted by substance use in pregnancy and less likely to breastfeed. Our objectives were to assess relationships between substance use in pregnancy and exclusive breastfeeding at discharge (EBF) and race/ethnicity and EBF, and determine the extent to which substance use influences the relationship between race/ethnicity and EBF. METHODS This is a retrospective cohort study of term mother-infant dyads using 2016 to 2019 data from a Northwest quality improvement collaborative, Obstetrical Care Outcomes Assessment Program. Stepwise and stratified multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine associations between independent variables consisting of characteristics, including maternal race/ethnicity and substance use, and the dependent variable, EBF. RESULTS Our sample consisted of 84,742 dyads, 69.5% of whom had EBF. The adjusted odds of EBF for non-Hispanic Black and Hispanic mothers were half, and for American Indian/Alaska Native mothers two-thirds, that of White mothers (aOR [95% CI]: 0.52 [0.48, 0.57], 0.51 [0.48, 0.54], 0.64 [0.55, 0.76], respectively). Substance use did not mediate the association between race/ethnicity and EBF, but it modified the association. Among those reporting nicotine or marijuana use, Hispanic mothers were half as likely as White mothers were to exclusively breastfeed. Other factors associated with a lower likelihood of EBF included public or no insurance, rural setting, C-section, NICU admission, and LBW. CONCLUSIONS Disparities in EBF related to race/ethnicity and substance use were pronounced in this study, particularly among Hispanic mothers with nicotine or marijuana use.
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Crowley HR, Goyal NK, Chung EK. Marijuana and Breastfeeding: A Pilot Survey of Mothers. Hosp Pediatr 2022; 12:e255-e260. [PMID: 35642492 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2021-006420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe maternal knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to marijuana use and breastfeeding, and determine their association with knowledge about potential harmful effects of marijauna use while breastfeeding. METHODS Cross-sectional study design, using a 48-item survey, including previously validated questions, of postpartum mothers at a single urban, academic hospital from 2018 to 2019. Mothers ≥ 18 years with a newborn ≥ 35 weeks' gestation were eligible. Descriptive statistics were tabulated, and associations were tested by using χ2 analysis. RESULTS Of 46 participants, 57% reported marijuana use, and 13% use within the past 12 months. The large majority (87%) knew that use while breastfeeding may be harmful to the infant, whereas just 46% knew that marijuana or THC is found in breast milk. Only 35% received prenatal and 30% postnatal counseling on the risks of marijuana use while breastfeeding. Those aware compared to those unaware that marijuana use during pregnancy may cause learning and behavior problems were more likely to know that use while breastfeeding may be harmful to the infant (75% vs. 25%, P = .03). Those reporting prenatal HCP discussion about the risks of marijuana use while breastfeeding compared to those without such counseling were more likely to know that marijuana/ or HC is found in breast milk (69% vs. 33%, P = .02). CONCLUSIONS The majority of mothers were aware that marijuana use while breastfeeding may be harmful to the infant, but a minority received counseling about the risks of marijuana use while breastfeeding.
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Riley T, Nethery E, Chung EK, Souter V. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on perinatal care and outcomes in the United States: An interrupted time series analysis. Birth 2022; 49:298-309. [PMID: 34957595 DOI: 10.1111/birt.12606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitals quickly adapted perinatal care to mitigate SARS-CoV-2 transmission at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of this study was to estimate the impact of pandemic-related hospital policy changes on perinatal care and outcomes in one region of the United States. METHODS This interrupted time series analysis used retrospective data from consecutive singleton births at 15 hospitals in the Pacific Northwest from 2017 to 2020. The primary outcomes were those hypothesized to be affected by pandemic-related hospital policies and included labor induction, epidural use, oxytocin augmentation, mode of delivery, and early discharge (<48 hours after cesarean and <24 hours after vaginal births). Secondary outcomes included preterm birth, severe maternal morbidity, low 5-minute Apgar score, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and 30-day readmission. Segmented Poisson regression models estimated the outcome level shift changes after the pandemic onset, controlling for underlying trends, seasonality, and stratifying by parity. RESULTS No statistically significant changes were detected in intrapartum interventions or mode of delivery after onset of the pandemic. Early discharge increased for all births following cesarean and vaginal birth. Newborn readmission rates increased but only among nulliparas (aRR: 1.49, 95%CI: 1.17, 1.91). Among multiparas, decreases were observed in preterm birth (aRR: 0.90, 95%CI: 0.84, 0.96), low 5-minute Apgar score (aRR: 0.75, 95%CI: 0.68, 0.81), and term NICU admission rates (aRR: 0.85, 95%CI: 0.80, 0.91). CONCLUSIONS Increases in early discharge and newborn readmission rates among nulliparas suggest a need for more postpartum support during the pandemic. Decreases in preterm birth and term NICU admission among multiparas may have implications beyond the pandemic and deserve further study.
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Chung EK, Solomon BS, Perrin EM, Starmer A, Turner TL, Chandran L. High-Quality Primary Care Implementation: The Time is Now. Acad Pediatr 2022; 22:176-178. [PMID: 34818589 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2021.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
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McClintock AH, Kim S, Chung EK. Bridging the Gap Between Educator and Learner: The Role of Psychological Safety in Medical Education. Pediatrics 2022; 149:183907. [PMID: 34972228 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2021-055028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Chung EK, Enquobahrie DA. Perinatal Hepatitis B Prevention: Eliminating Disease and Disparity. Pediatrics 2021; 147:peds.2020-037549. [PMID: 33531337 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-037549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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Chung EK, Short VL, Hand DJ, Gubernick RS, Abatemarco DJ. Poor prenatal care does not predict well child care for children born to mothers with opioid use disorder. JOURNAL OF SUBSTANCE USE 2020. [DOI: 10.1080/14659891.2020.1736665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Goyal NK, Rohde JF, Short V, Patrick SW, Abatemarco D, Chung EK. Well-Child Care Adherence After Intrauterine Opioid Exposure. Pediatrics 2020; 145:peds.2019-1275. [PMID: 31896548 PMCID: PMC6993495 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2019-1275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES For children with intrauterine opioid exposure (IOE), well-child care (WCC) provides an important opportunity to address medical, developmental, and psychosocial needs. We evaluated WCC adherence for this population. METHODS In this retrospective cohort study, we used PEDSnet data from a pediatric primary care network spanning 3 states from 2011 to 2016. IOE was ascertained by using physician diagnosis codes. WCC adherence in the first year was defined as a postnatal or 1-month visit and completed 2-, 4-, 6-, 9-, and 12-month visits. WCC adherence in the second year was defined as completed 15- and 18-month visits. Gaps in WCC, defined as ≥2 missed consecutive WCC visits, were also evaluated. We used multivariable regression to test the independent effect of IOE status. RESULTS Among 11 334 children, 236 (2.1%) had a diagnosis of IOE. Children with IOE had a median of 6 WCC visits (interquartile range 5-7), vs 8 (interquartile range 6-8) among children who were not exposed (P < .001). IOE was associated with decreased WCC adherence over the first and second years of life (adjusted relative risk 0.54 [P < .001] and 0.74 [P < .001]). WCC gaps were more likely in this population (adjusted relative risk 1.43; P < .001). There were no significant adjusted differences in nonroutine primary care visits, immunizations by age 2, or lead screening. CONCLUSIONS Children <2 years of age with IOE are less likely to adhere to recommended WCC, despite receiving on-time immunizations and lead screening. Further research should be focused on the role of WCC visits to support the complex needs of this population.
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Chung EK, Gubernick RS, LaNoue M, Abatemarco DJ. Child Abuse and Neglect Risk Assessment: Quality Improvement in a Primary Care Setting. Acad Pediatr 2019; 19:227-235. [PMID: 30273689 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2018] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 09/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Practicing Safety is an American Academy of Pediatrics toolkit to help practices address child abuse and neglect (CAN) risk by increasing screening and providing resources. The objectives in an urban practice serving low-income children were to 1) standardize CAN risk assessment and developmental screening, and 2) improve resource provision. METHODS A quality improvement initiative to standardize CAN risk assessment, using materials adapted from Practicing Safety, was conducted through the use of SmartTools in an electronic health record. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale and Parents Evaluation of Developmental Status were used to assess maternal depression and child development, respectively. Charts were reviewed in waves-pre-, immediate post-, and early post-implementation (waves 1 to 3); monthly for 6 months (waves 4 to 9); and quarterly for 12 months (waves 10 to 13)-to assess screening and resource provision for 6 domains: infant crying, maternal depression, development, discipline, temper tantrums, and toilet training. RESULTS A total of 581 charts were reviewed (92, 95, and 94 for waves 1 to 3, respectively; 30 each for waves 4 to 13). Screening for infant crying, maternal depression, development, and discipline rose from 0% pre-implementation to over 50% post-implementation. Screening for temper tantrums and toilet training rose from 6% to 72% and from 36% to 82%, respectively. For all measures, resource provision improved over time, and all improvements were maintained for 1.5 years post-implementation. CONCLUSIONS Incorporating an adapted version of Practicing Safety into an electronic health record is a practical and effective approach to improving CAN risk assessment and resource provision. This quality improvement initiative is an example of a practice-wide improvement that resulted in clinical practice change.
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Taylor JA, Stout JW, de Greef L, Goel M, Patel S, Chung EK, Koduri A, McMahon S, Dickerson J, Simpson EA, Larson EC. Use of a Smartphone App to Assess Neonatal Jaundice. Pediatrics 2017; 140:peds.2017-0312. [PMID: 28842403 PMCID: PMC5574723 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2017-0312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The assessment of jaundice in outpatient neonates is problematic. Visual assessment is inaccurate, and more exact methodologies are cumbersome and/or expensive. Our goal in this study was to assess the accuracy of a technology based on the analysis of digital images of newborns obtained using a smartphone application called BiliCam. METHODS Paired BiliCam images and total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels were obtained in a diverse sample of newborns (<7 days old) at 7 sites across the United States. By using specialized software, data on color values in the images ("features") were extracted. Machine learning and regression analysis techniques were used to identify features for inclusion in models to predict an estimated bilirubin level for each newborn. The correlation between estimated bilirubin levels and TSB levels was calculated. In addition, the sensitivity and specificity of the estimated bilirubin levels in identifying newborns with high TSB levels were calculated by using 2 recommended decision rules for jaundice screening. RESULTS Estimated bilirubin levels were calculated and compared with TSB levels in a diverse sample of 530 newborns (20.8% African American, 26.3% Hispanic, and 21.2% Asian American). The overall correlation was 0.91, and correlations among white, African American, Hispanic, and Asian American newborns were 0.92, 0.90, 0.91, and 0.88, respectively. The sensitivities of BiliCam in identifying newborns with high TSB levels were 84.6% and 100%, respectively, by using 2 decision rules; specificities were 75.1% and 76.4%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS BiliCam provided accurate estimates of TSB values, demonstrating that an inexpensive technology that uses commodity smartphones could be used to effectively screen newborns for jaundice.
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Chung EK, Gable EK, Golden WC, Hudson JA, Hackman NM, Andrews JP, Jackson DS, Beavers JB, Mirchandani DR, Kellams A, Krevitsky ME, Monroe K, Madlon-Kay DJ, Stratbucker W, Campbell D, Collins J, Rauch D. Current Scope of Practice for Newborn Care in Non-Intensive Hospital Settings. Hosp Pediatr 2017; 7:471-482. [PMID: 28694290 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2016-0206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
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Chung EK, Kahn S, Altshuler M, Lane JL, Plumb J. The JeffSTARS Advocacy and Community Partnership Elective: A Closer Look at Child Health Advocacy in Action. MEDEDPORTAL : THE JOURNAL OF TEACHING AND LEARNING RESOURCES 2016; 12:10526. [PMID: 30800729 PMCID: PMC6365684 DOI: 10.15766/mep_2374-8265.10526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2016] [Accepted: 12/20/2016] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Advocacy and service-learning increasingly are being incorporated into medical education and residency training. The Jefferson Service Training in Advocacy for Residents and Students (JeffSTARS) curriculum is an educational program for Thomas Jefferson University and Nemours trainees. The JeffSTARS Advocacy and Community Partnership Elective is one of two core components of the larger curriculum. METHODS The elective is a monthlong rotation that provides trainees in their senior year of medical school or residency training the opportunity to learn about health advocacy in depth. Trainees develop a basic understanding of social determinants of health, learn about health policy, participate in legislative office visits, and work directly with community agencies on a mutually agreeable project. The elective provides advocacy training to self-selected trainees from area medical schools and residency programs to develop a cadre of physicians empowered to advocate for child health. RESULTS JeffSTARS has advanced the field of child health advocacy locally by forging new partnerships and building a network of experts, agencies, and academic institutions. After this experience, trainees realize that their health expertise is very valuable to health advocacy and policy development. JeffSTARS is recognized nationally as one of a growing number of advocacy training programs for students and residents, with trainees presenting selected projects at national meetings. DISCUSSION Teaching advocacy has raised awareness about social determinants of health, community resources, and the medical home. One of the many benefits of the elective has been to strengthen the skills and expertise of trainees and faculty members alike.
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Chung EK, Siegel BS, Garg A, Conroy K, Gross RS, Long DA, Lewis G, Osman CJ, Jo Messito M, Wade R, Shonna Yin H, Cox J, Fierman AH. Screening for Social Determinants of Health Among Children and Families Living in Poverty: A Guide for Clinicians. Curr Probl Pediatr Adolesc Health Care 2016; 46:135-53. [PMID: 27101890 PMCID: PMC6039226 DOI: 10.1016/j.cppeds.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Approximately 20% of all children in the United States live in poverty, which exists in rural, urban, and suburban areas. Thus, all child health clinicians need to be familiar with the effects of poverty on health and to understand associated, preventable, and modifiable social factors that impact health. Social determinants of health are identifiable root causes of medical problems. For children living in poverty, social determinants of health for which clinicians may play a role include the following: child maltreatment, child care and education, family financial support, physical environment, family social support, intimate partner violence, maternal depression and family mental illness, household substance abuse, firearm exposure, and parental health literacy. Children, particularly those living in poverty, exposed to adverse childhood experiences are susceptible to toxic stress and a variety of child and adult health problems, including developmental delay, asthma and heart disease. Despite the detrimental effects of social determinants on health, few child health clinicians routinely address the unmet social and psychosocial factors impacting children and their families during routine primary care visits. Clinicians need tools to screen for social determinants of health and to be familiar with available local and national resources to address these issues. These guidelines provide an overview of social determinants of health impacting children living in poverty and provide clinicians with practical screening tools and resources.
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Taylor JA, Burgos AE, Flaherman V, Chung EK, Simpson EA, Goyal NK, Von Kohorn I, Dhepyasuwan N. Utility of Decision Rules for Transcutaneous Bilirubin Measurements. Pediatrics 2016; 137:peds.2015-3032. [PMID: 27244792 PMCID: PMC4845868 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2015-3032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) meters are widely used for screening newborns for jaundice, with a total serum bilirubin (TSB) measurement indicated when the TcB value is classified as "positive" by using a decision rule. The goal of our study was to assess the clinical utility of 3 recommended TcB screening decision rules. METHODS Paired TcB/TSB measurements were collected at 34 newborn nursery sites. At 27 sites (sample 1), newborns were routinely screened with a TcB measurement. For sample 2, sites that typically screen with TSB levels also obtained a TcB measurement for the study. Three decision rules to define a positive TcB measurement were evaluated: ≥75th percentile on the Bhutani nomogram, 70% of the phototherapy level, and within 3 mg/dL of the phototherapy threshold. The primary outcome was a TSB level at/above the phototherapy threshold. The rate of false-negative TcB screens and percentage of blood draws avoided were calculated for each decision rule. RESULTS For sample 1, data were analyzed on 911 paired TcB-TSB measurements from a total of 8316 TcB measurements. False-negative rates were <10% with all decision rules; none identified all 31 newborns with a TSB level at/above the phototherapy threshold. The percentage of blood draws avoided ranged from 79.4% to 90.7%. In sample 2, each rule correctly identified all 8 newborns with TSB levels at/above the phototherapy threshold. CONCLUSIONS Although all of the decision rules can be used effectively to screen newborns for jaundice, each will "miss" some infants with a TSB level at/above the phototherapy threshold.
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Fierman AH, Beck AF, Chung EK, Tschudy MM, Coker TR, Mistry KB, Siegel B, Chamberlain LJ, Conroy K, Federico SG, Flanagan PJ, Garg A, Gitterman BA, Grace AM, Gross RS, Hole MK, Klass P, Kraft C, Kuo A, Lewis G, Lobach KS, Long D, Ma CT, Messito M, Navsaria D, Northrip KR, Osman C, Sadof MD, Schickedanz AB, Cox J. Redesigning Health Care Practices to Address Childhood Poverty. Acad Pediatr 2016; 16:S136-46. [PMID: 27044692 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2016.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 12/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/05/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Child poverty in the United States is widespread and has serious negative effects on the health and well-being of children throughout their life course. Child health providers are considering ways to redesign their practices in order to mitigate the negative effects of poverty on children and support the efforts of families to lift themselves out of poverty. To do so, practices need to adopt effective methods to identify poverty-related social determinants of health and provide effective interventions to address them. Identification of needs can be accomplished with a variety of established screening tools. Interventions may include resource directories, best maintained in collaboration with local/regional public health, community, and/or professional organizations; programs embedded in the practice (eg, Reach Out and Read, Healthy Steps for Young Children, Medical-Legal Partnership, Health Leads); and collaboration with home visiting programs. Changes to health care financing are needed to support the delivery of these enhanced services, and active advocacy by child health providers continues to be important in effecting change. We highlight the ongoing work of the Health Care Delivery Subcommittee of the Academic Pediatric Association Task Force on Child Poverty in defining the ways in which child health care practice can be adapted to improve the approach to addressing child poverty.
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Taylor JA, Burgos AE, Flaherman V, Chung EK, Simpson EA, Goyal NK, Von Kohorn I, Dhepyasuwan N. Discrepancies between transcutaneous and serum bilirubin measurements. Pediatrics 2015; 135:224-31. [PMID: 25601981 PMCID: PMC4306797 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2014-1919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize discrepancies between transcutaneous bilirubin (TcB) measurements and total serum bilirubin (TSB) levels among newborns receiving care at multiple nursery sites across the United States. METHODS Medical records were reviewed to obtain data on all TcB measurements collected during two 2-week periods on neonates admitted to participating newborn nurseries. Data on TSB levels obtained within 2 hours of a TcB measurement were also abstracted. TcB--TSB differences and correlations between the values were determined. Data on demographic information for individual newborns and TcB screening practices for each nursery were also collected. Multivariate regression analysis was used to identify characteristics independently associated with the TcB--TSB difference. RESULTS Data on 8319 TcB measurements were collected at 27 nursery sites; 925 TSB levels were matched to a TcB value. The mean TcB--TSB difference was 0.84 ± 1.78 mg/dL, and the correlation between paired measurements was 0.78. In the multivariate analysis, TcB--TSB differences were 0.67 mg/dL higher in African-American newborns than in neonates of other races (P < .001). The TcB--TSB difference also varied significantly based on brand of TcB meter used and hour of age of the infant. For 2.2% of paired measurements, the TcB measurement underestimated the TSB level by ≥ 3 mg/dL. CONCLUSIONS During routine clinical care, TcB measurement provided a reasonable estimate of TSB levels in healthy newborns. Discrepancies between TcB and TSB levels were increased in African-American newborns and varied based on brand of meter used.
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Simpson E, Goyal NK, Dhepyasuwan N, Flaherman VJ, Chung EK, Von Kohorn I, Burgos A, Taylor J. Prioritizing a research agenda: a Delphi study of the better outcomes through research for newborns (BORN) network. Hosp Pediatr 2014; 4:195-202. [PMID: 24986986 DOI: 10.1542/hpeds.2014-0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a paucity of evidence to guide clinical management for term and late preterm newborns. The Better Outcomes through Research for Newborns (BORN) network is a national collaborative of clinicians formed to increase the evidence-base for well newborn care. OBJECTIVE To develop a consensus-based, prioritized research agenda for well newborn care. DESIGN A two-round modified Delphi survey of BORN members was conducted. Round 1 was an open-ended survey soliciting 5 clinical questions identified as important and under-researched. Using qualitative methods, 20 most common themes were extracted and transformed into research questions. Round 2 survey respondents ranked the top 20 questions using a 5- point Likert scale and a quantitative analysis was conducted. RESULTS Round 1 survey generated 439 unique research questions that fell into 57 themes. In the Round 2 survey, the highest rated questions were: 1) At what weight-loss percentage is it medically necessary to formula supplement a breastfeeding infant? 2) What is the optimal management of infants with neonatal abstinence syndrome? 3) How and when should we initiate a workup for sepsis, and how should these newborns be managed? CONCLUSIONS Research priorities of clinicians include criteria for medically indicated formula supplementation of the breastfed newborn, management of neonatal abstinence syndrome and management of newborns at-risk for sepsis.
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Crivelli-Kovach A, Chung EK. An evaluation of hospital breastfeeding policies in the Philadelphia metropolitan area 1994-2009: a comparison with the baby-friendly hospital initiative ten steps. Breastfeed Med 2011; 6:77-84. [PMID: 20958103 DOI: 10.1089/bfm.2010.0009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to describe current breastfeeding policies and practices among Philadelphia, PA metropolitan hospitals and changes in their policies and practices over time. METHODS In-person group interviews were conducted to obtain a composite picture of actual breastfeeding policies and practices. One questionnaire per hospital was completed based on responses from group consensus. Twenty-five hospitals providing maternity care were contacted. Information was obtained from personnel representing different areas of maternity services. Hospitals were classified according to the degree to which they were implementing the Ten Steps to Successful Breastfeeding. RESULTS Mean breastfeeding rates at suburban hospitals were significantly higher than urban hospitals (72% vs. 49%, p = 0.015). Most hospitals were classified as high or moderately high implementers on six of the Ten Steps, including staff training (67%), printed information distributed to breastfeeding mothers (94%), breastfeeding initiation (61%), oral breastfeeding instruction given to mothers (83%), infant feeding schedules (89%), and hospital postpartum support (83%). Most hospitals reported partial or low implementation on two maternity practices: infant formula supplementation (61%) and rooming-in (72%). CONCLUSIONS In the past 15 years, hospitals in the Philadelphia area have an increased awareness about breastfeeding and enhanced support of breastfeeding by healthcare professionals. In spite of an increase in overall breastfeeding rates, formula supplementation in hospitals and contact time between mothers and their newborns continue to be areas of concern.
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Denney JM, Nelson EL, Wadhwa PD, Waters TP, Mathew L, Chung EK, Goldenberg RL, Culhane JF. Longitudinal modulation of immune system cytokine profile during pregnancy. Cytokine 2010; 53:170-7. [PMID: 21123081 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2010.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2010] [Revised: 10/16/2010] [Accepted: 11/08/2010] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize immune modulation as expressed by cytokine assays at three time-points in human pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN This is a prospective, longitudinal study of a broad panel of cytokine expression during singleton pregnancies resulting in an uncomplicated, full-term, live births. Peripheral blood was obtained at 8-14, 18-22, and 28-32 weeks gestation. Six cytokines - IFN-γ, IL-4, TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-10 - were measured in supernatants obtained from whole blood stimulations with PHA or LPS and were compared to unstimulated controls. Samples were processed by Luminex-100 MAP®. We used Generalized Linear Models (GLM) to evaluate cytokine trajectories. RESULTS Complete data were obtained for 45 uncomplicated pregnancies. Overall, peripheral blood WBC's demonstrated dampened cytokine responses. However, over the course of pregnancy, we found enhanced counter-regulatory cytokine expression (e.g., shown by increased IL-10). CONCLUSION The overall decrease in pro-inflammatory cytokines and increase in counter-regulatory cytokines as uncomplicated pregnancy progresses supports the evolving concepts of immunoregulation for the maintenance of a viable pregnancy.
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Chung EK, Nurmohamed L, Mathew L, Elo IT, Coyne JC, Culhane JF. Risky health behaviors among mothers-to-be: the impact of adverse childhood experiences. Acad Pediatr 2010; 10:245-51. [PMID: 20599179 PMCID: PMC2897837 DOI: 10.1016/j.acap.2010.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2009] [Revised: 04/08/2010] [Accepted: 04/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are risk factors for health problems later in life. This study aims to assess the influence of ACEs on risky health behaviors among mothers-to-be and determine whether a dose response occurs between ACEs and risky behaviors. METHODS A prospective survey of women attending health centers was conducted at the first prenatal care visit, and at 3 and 11 months postpartum. Surveys obtained information on maternal sociodemographic and health characteristics, and 7 ACEs prior to age 16. Risky behaviors included smoking, alcohol use, marijuana use, and other illicit drug use during pregnancy. RESULTS Our sample (N = 1476) consisted of low-income (mean annual personal income, $8272), young (mean age, 24 years), African American (71%), single (75%) women. Twenty-three percent of women reported smoking even after finding out they were pregnant, 7% reported alcohol use, and 7% reported illicit drug use during pregnancy. Nearly three fourths (72%) had one or more ACEs. There was a higher prevalence of each risky behavior among those exposed to each ACE than among those unexposed. The exception was alcohol use during pregnancy, where there was not an increased risk among those exposed when compared with those unexposed to witnessing a shooting or having a guardian in trouble with the law or in jail. The adjusted odds ratio for each risky behavior was >2.5 for those with >3 ACEs when compared with those without. CONCLUSIONS ACEs were associated with risky health behaviors reported by mothers-to-be. Greater efforts should target the prevention of ACEs to lower the risk for adverse health behaviors that have serious consequences for adults and their children.
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Chung EK, Mathew L, Rothkopf AC, Elo IT, Coyne JC, Culhane JF. Parenting attitudes and infant spanking: the influence of childhood experiences. Pediatrics 2009; 124:e278-86. [PMID: 19620204 PMCID: PMC3760718 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2008-3247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess associations among maternal childhood experiences and subsequent parenting attitudes and use of infant spanking (IS), and determine if attitudes mediate the association between physical abuse exposure and IS. METHODS We performed a prospective study of women who received prenatal care at community health centers in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Sociodemographic characteristics, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), attitudes toward corporal punishment (CP), and IS use were assessed via face-to-face interviews, conducted at the first prenatal care visit, 3 months postpartum, and 11 months postpartum. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS The sample consisted of 1265 mostly black, low-income women. Nineteen percent of the participants valued CP as a means of discipline, and 14% reported IS use. Mothers exposed to childhood physical abuse and verbal hostility were more likely to report IS use than those not exposed (16% vs 10%, P = .002; 17% vs 12%, P = .02, respectively). In the adjusted analyses, maternal exposure to physical abuse, other ACEs, and valuing CP were independently associated with IS use. Attitudes that value CP did not mediate these associations. CONCLUSIONS Mothers who had childhood experiences of violence were more likely to use IS than mothers without such experiences. Intergenerational transmission of CP was evident. Mothers who had experienced physical abuse as a child, when compared to those who had not, were 1.5 times more likely to use IS. Child discipline attitudes and maternal childhood experiences should be discussed early in parenting in order to prevent IS use, particularly among at-risk mothers.
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